Supplements that lower blood sugar
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Supplements That Lower Blood Sugar
Managing blood sugar levels is crucial for individuals with diabetes or prediabetes. Various dietary supplements have been studied for their potential to lower blood glucose levels. This article synthesizes the findings from multiple research studies on supplements that have shown promise in reducing blood sugar.
Chromium Supplements
Chromium Dinicocysteinate
Chromium dinicocysteinate (CDNC) has been shown to significantly lower blood glucose levels in Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats. CDNC supplementation resulted in reduced fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, and markers of inflammation such as CRP and MCP-1. The mechanism appears to involve increased blood vitamin C and adiponectin levels, along with inhibition of NFkappaB, Akt, and Glut-2 in the liver .
Chromium in General
A broader review of dietary supplements also highlighted chromium as effective in lowering fasting blood sugar (FBS) and HbA1c levels. However, the clinical significance of these effects varies, and further studies are needed to confirm these findings .
L-Cysteine
L-cysteine supplementation has been found to lower blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and markers of oxidative stress and inflammation in ZDF rats. The reduction in blood glucose levels was attributed to the inhibition of NF-kappaB activation in the liver .
Curcumin and Curcuminoids
Curcumin, a compound found in turmeric, has been shown to lower fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels in individuals with dysglycemia. A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found that curcumin supplementation significantly decreased FBG and HbA1c levels, although it did not affect insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) .
Saffron and Fenugreek
Fenugreek
Fenugreek has demonstrated a significant reduction in FBG, postprandial blood glucose (PPBG), and HbA1c levels. The effects were more pronounced in individuals with diabetes, suggesting its potential as a supplementary treatment .
Saffron
Saffron supplementation also showed a reduction in FBG and HbA1c levels, although the effects were less pronounced compared to fenugreek. Further high-quality studies are needed to establish its clinical efficacy .
Exogenous Ketones
Exogenous ketone supplements, such as ketone monoesters and salts, have been found to acutely lower blood glucose levels. Meta-analyses indicate that these supplements increase blood β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) and decrease mean blood glucose levels, with ketone monoesters showing greater efficacy than salts .
Cinnamon
Cinnamon supplementation has been shown to significantly improve fasting plasma glucose (FPG) levels and reduce anthropometric measurements such as body weight and BMI in type 2 diabetes patients. The active compounds in cinnamon mimic insulin activity, enhancing glucose uptake and glycogen synthesis .
Cheonggukjang and Red Ginseng Cheonggukjang
Cheonggukjang (CH) and red ginseng cheonggukjang (RGCH) have been found to lower FBG levels and improve plasma lipid profiles in individuals with impaired fasting glucose. These supplements also reduced total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels, suggesting additional cardiovascular benefits .
Propolis
Propolis supplementation has shown promise in improving glycemic control and antioxidant status in type 2 diabetes patients. A randomized controlled trial found significant reductions in FBS, 2-hour postprandial glucose, insulin resistance, and HbA1c levels, along with increased antioxidant enzyme activities .
Probiotics
Probiotic supplements have been found to improve blood glucose levels and insulin sensitivity, particularly in pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and healthy pregnant women. The supplements reduced FPG, serum insulin, and insulin resistance, although the effects on HbA1c were not significant .
Conclusion
Several dietary supplements, including chromium, L-cysteine, curcumin, fenugreek, saffron, exogenous ketones, cinnamon, cheonggukjang, propolis, and probiotics, have shown potential in lowering blood sugar levels. While these findings are promising, further clinical trials are needed to confirm their efficacy and establish standardized dosages for effective blood glucose management.
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